Archive for February, 2014

By Bruce P. Miller

Thursday, February 20th, 2014

Reality cable shows like Deadliest Catch and Ax Men thrill millions of viewers with an inside look at the two most dangerous jobs in America: logging and commercial fishing. But you don’t have to get tangled in a runaway fishing net or struck by a falling tree to get hurt on the job. Every day, 12 Americans go to work and never come home. Every year, nearly 3 million more suffer debilitating injuries.

Under federal law, every employee has the right to a safe workplace. If you believe your workplace is dangerous, you can request an inspection from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a federal agency. Click here for more information, including educational resources for both employees and employers.

Workers’ compensation, which is regulated on the state level, covers medical bills, lost wages, and disability benefits for employees injured on the job. If you are hurt at work, report your injury to your employer immediately. Download this handy checklist to collect information for your claim. If your employer doesn’t report your claim or the insurer denies your claim, you may need a lawyer. Contact us anytime for more information.

By Gary E. Adams

Friday, February 14th, 2014

The good news isAmerica’s workplaces are safer now than ever. Injuries in 2012 were at an all-time low and fatalities were the second lowest on record, according to the 2014 State of Safety report from the National Safety Council. “Through collaborative education and outreach efforts, and effective law enforcement, these numbers indicate that we are absolutely moving in the right direction,” said Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez.

That being said, there were still 4,383 fatal work injuries in 2012, according to the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, and nearly 3 million injuries. Employers, employees, health and safety professionals and government officials must continue working together to keep workplace safety top of mind.

10 Safety Tips for Employees

Here are 10 tips to help employees create a safer work environment for themselves and others:

Be aware. Know the hazards particular to your workplace.

Learn good posture. While at your desk, keep your shoulders in line with your hips. And use good form when lifting.

Take regular breaks. Many work-related injuries occur when a worker is tired. Schedule tough tasks when refreshed.

Don’t take shortcuts. Skipping proper procedures when using dangerous tools and machinery is the leading cause of workplace injuries.

Keep emergency exits clear. And make it easy to reach emergency shutoffs.

Report unsafe conditions to your supervisor. Don’t be shy if you see a workplace hazard. Your supervisors are legally obligated to ensure your safety.

Use mechanical aids whenever possible. Don’t carry something heavy when you could use a wheelbarrow, conveyor belt, forklift or other aid.

Stay sober. About 3 percent of workplace fatalities occur due to alcohol and drug use.